EP4274972A1 - Rod for connecting members of a motor vehicle, and associated manufacturing method - Google Patents

Rod for connecting members of a motor vehicle, and associated manufacturing method

Info

Publication number
EP4274972A1
EP4274972A1 EP22700231.8A EP22700231A EP4274972A1 EP 4274972 A1 EP4274972 A1 EP 4274972A1 EP 22700231 A EP22700231 A EP 22700231A EP 4274972 A1 EP4274972 A1 EP 4274972A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
connecting rod
stirrup
eyelet
rod according
reinforcing strip
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP22700231.8A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Sébastien OGER
Franck KERGUELEN
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
ContiTech Vibration Control GmbH
Original Assignee
ContiTech Vibration Control GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by ContiTech Vibration Control GmbH filed Critical ContiTech Vibration Control GmbH
Publication of EP4274972A1 publication Critical patent/EP4274972A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
    • F16C7/00—Connecting-rods or like links pivoted at both ends; Construction of connecting-rod heads
    • F16C7/02—Constructions of connecting-rods with constant length
    • F16C7/026—Constructions of connecting-rods with constant length made of fibre reinforced resin
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C45/00—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C45/14—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. injection moulding around inserts or for coating articles
    • B29C45/14467—Joining articles or parts of a single article
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C45/00—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C45/14—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. injection moulding around inserts or for coating articles
    • B29C45/14778—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. injection moulding around inserts or for coating articles the article consisting of a material with particular properties, e.g. porous, brittle
    • B29C45/14786—Fibrous material or fibre containing material, e.g. fibre mats or fibre reinforced material
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C45/00—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C45/14—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. injection moulding around inserts or for coating articles
    • B29C45/14336—Coating a portion of the article, e.g. the edge of the article
    • B29C2045/14442—Coating a portion of the article, e.g. the edge of the article injecting a grill or grid on the insert
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C45/00—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C45/14—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. injection moulding around inserts or for coating articles
    • B29C45/14311—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. injection moulding around inserts or for coating articles using means for bonding the coating to the articles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
    • B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
    • B29L2031/06—Rods, e.g. connecting rods, rails, stakes
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2206/00—Indexing codes related to the manufacturing of suspensions: constructional features, the materials used, procedures or tools
    • B60G2206/01—Constructional features of suspension elements, e.g. arms, dampers, springs
    • B60G2206/014—Constructional features of suspension elements, e.g. arms, dampers, springs with reinforcing nerves or branches
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2206/00—Indexing codes related to the manufacturing of suspensions: constructional features, the materials used, procedures or tools
    • B60G2206/01—Constructional features of suspension elements, e.g. arms, dampers, springs
    • B60G2206/016—Constructional features of suspension elements, e.g. arms, dampers, springs allowing controlled deformation during collision
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2206/00—Indexing codes related to the manufacturing of suspensions: constructional features, the materials used, procedures or tools
    • B60G2206/01—Constructional features of suspension elements, e.g. arms, dampers, springs
    • B60G2206/10—Constructional features of arms
    • B60G2206/11—Constructional features of arms the arm being a radius or track or torque or steering rod or stabiliser end link
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2206/00—Indexing codes related to the manufacturing of suspensions: constructional features, the materials used, procedures or tools
    • B60G2206/01—Constructional features of suspension elements, e.g. arms, dampers, springs
    • B60G2206/70—Materials used in suspensions
    • B60G2206/71—Light weight materials
    • B60G2206/7104—Thermoplastics
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2206/00—Indexing codes related to the manufacturing of suspensions: constructional features, the materials used, procedures or tools
    • B60G2206/01—Constructional features of suspension elements, e.g. arms, dampers, springs
    • B60G2206/70—Materials used in suspensions
    • B60G2206/72—Steel
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G7/00—Pivoted suspension arms; Accessories thereof
    • B60G7/001—Suspension arms, e.g. constructional features
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
    • F16C2208/00—Plastics; Synthetic resins, e.g. rubbers
    • F16C2208/02—Plastics; Synthetic resins, e.g. rubbers comprising fillers, fibres
    • F16C2208/04—Glass fibres
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
    • F16C2208/00—Plastics; Synthetic resins, e.g. rubbers
    • F16C2208/20—Thermoplastic resins
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
    • F16C2220/00—Shaping
    • F16C2220/02—Shaping by casting
    • F16C2220/04—Shaping by casting by injection-moulding
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
    • F16C2326/00—Articles relating to transporting
    • F16C2326/01—Parts of vehicles in general

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of mechanics, and more specifically to that of the components involved in the structure of a motor vehicle.
  • connecting rods are provided: the ends of these connecting rods are rotatably mounted on each of the organs capable of moving relative to each other according to a predefined trajectory.
  • An example of such a connecting rod is a torque pick-up connecting rod of the engine of a motor vehicle, interposed between this engine and the chassis of the vehicle.
  • connecting rod is a connecting rod between the cradle and a wheel support of a motor vehicle.
  • a connecting rod comprising at one of its ends a connecting eyelet, and at its other end, a connecting bracket.
  • these connecting rods of the prior art are formed from metal or a metal alloy, for example extruded aluminum, or cast steel.
  • connecting rods made of thermoplastic materials of the type with eyelets at both ends, which are lighter but less mechanically resistant.
  • the object of the present invention is thus in particular to provide a connecting rod for a motor vehicle structure, of the eyelet and connecting bracket type, lighter than that of the prior art, and having at least equal mechanical strength.
  • a connecting rod comprising, at each of its two ends, a connecting part intended to cooperate with an external member, one of these connecting parts comprising a stirrup and the other of these parts connection comprising an eyelet, said stirrup being connected to said eyelet by a continuous reinforcing strip forming a loop, said eyelet, said stirrup and said strip being molded at least partially by a thermoplastic material.
  • a connecting rod which is not only resistant, thanks to the presence of the continuous reinforcing strip, but also light, thanks to the use of a thermoplastic material, which replaces metal or prior art metal alloy.
  • stirrup is formed of metal or metal alloy, by stamping, or by molding, or by extrusion, and/or by machining and/or by welding several metal elements together: the use of metal or metal alloy makes it possible to ensure, by bolting, the good resistance over time of this end of the connecting rod which is intended to cooperate with a member of the motor vehicle, such as a wheel support member;
  • said caliper has, in the area of cooperation with said reinforcement strip, an omega section: such a section makes it possible to guarantee an optimal distribution of the stresses in the caliper and in the other parts of the connecting rod; specifically, this omega section allows for a high quadratic moment of the section while being drawable with low camber/bend radii;
  • stirrup has zones of weakness, adapted to give way before the other parts of the connecting rod, in the event of forces exceeding a predetermined threshold: it is thus possible to provide for the connecting rod to be deformed in the part of the stirrup, and not elsewhere, in the event of collision of the motor vehicle with an external obstacle, which makes it possible to control the mode of ruin of this connecting rod in extreme situations;
  • said eyelet comprises an elastic element in the center of which is inserted a metal element of substantially tubular shape: this elastic element, which can be for example - but not necessarily - annular, makes it possible to filter the vibrations transmitted by the connecting rod, and the insert metallic makes it possible to connect this elastic element by bolting to the structure of the motor vehicle without risk of wear of this element;
  • said reinforcing strip comprises long and continuous fibers such as glass or carbon fibers, or plant fibers such as flax or nettle fibers for example, embedded in a resin:
  • a reinforcing strip made example - but not limited to - with a polyamide resin, has the advantage of being very resistant to tensile forces, while being flexible enough to be able to be easily implemented between the stirrup and the eyelet during connecting rod manufacturing process;
  • thermoplastic overmolding is carried out in a resin identical or chemically compatible with that of the resin coating the fibers of said reinforcing strip: such overmolding can be easily carried out with conventional injection tools, at low cost; it also makes it possible to protect the reinforcement strip against the projection of gravel and other particles during movement of the motor vehicle; as it is made in the same resin, or in a resin chemically compatible with that coating the reinforcement strip, excellent cohesion of this overmolding with the reinforcement strip is obtained;
  • said overmolding has cavities and ribs: these ribs and these cavities, placed on the main stress paths, make it possible to save overmolded material, and therefore to reduce the weight and manufacturing cost of the connecting rod; in addition, ribs arranged between the reinforcing strip and the periphery of the connecting rod make it possible to position this reinforcing strip away from external mechanical attacks, such as impacts from gravel or other particles when the vehicle is moving.
  • the present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a connecting rod in accordance with the above, in which said reinforcing strip is passed inside said stirrup and around said eyelet, these three parts are placed thus connected to the inside an injection mold, and an overmolding material is injected inside this mold.
  • the overmolding material coats at least part of the stirrup, the eyelet and the reinforcement strip, making it possible to secure these parts together.
  • the pressure exerted by the overmoulding material during its injection inside the mold makes it possible to compress this annular elastic element towards its center: this makes it possible to increase the service life of this elastic element.
  • : is a perspective view of a stirrup, an eyelet and a reinforcing strip of a connecting rod according to the invention, before their assembly and their overmoulding; : is a perspective view of this stirrup, of this eyelet and of this band after their assembly and before their overmoulding; : is a perspective view of the connecting rod according to the invention after overmolding of the stirrup, the eyelet and the reinforcing strip; : is a top view of this connecting rod; : is a sectional view of this connecting rod along line AA of the ; : is a sectional view of this connecting rod along the line BB of the ; : is a view analogous to that of the , with a variant of stirrup; : is a view analogous to that of the , with yet another stirrup variant.
  • These three parts include a stirrup 1, an eyelet 3, and a reinforcement strip 5.
  • the stirrup 1 can be made by stamping, by molding, by extrusion, by assembly of mechanically welded parts, in steel in any other metal alloy meeting the specifications imposed by the manufacturer.
  • the stirrup 1 comprises in each of its side branches 2a, 2b an orifice 7a, 7b.
  • the central part 9 of this stirrup connecting the two lateral branches 2a, 2b together has an omega section, as is visible for example on the .
  • the eyelet 3 comprises a preferably - but not limited to - annular element 11 formed in an elastic material such as natural or synthetic rubber, overmolded with bonding on a substantially tubular element 13, preferably formed in metal.
  • the reinforcing strip 5 the width of which can for example - but in a non-limiting manner - be of the order of 20 mm, and the thickness of the order of 1 mm, is formed of resin, such as resin polyamide trapping long and continuous reinforcing fibers, such as glass or carbon fibers, or plant fibers such as flax or nettle fibers for example, these fibers being arranged substantially along the direction of the length of this strip 5.
  • resin such as resin polyamide trapping long and continuous reinforcing fibers, such as glass or carbon fibers, or plant fibers such as flax or nettle fibers for example, these fibers being arranged substantially along the direction of the length of this strip 5.
  • the polyamide resin is given by way of example, but it goes without saying that other resins used in the field of composites can also be suitable.
  • This reinforcing strip 5 forms a continuous loop, that is to say it has no interruption.
  • this reinforcing strip 5 is intended to pass around the annular rubber element 11 of the eyelet 3, and inside the stirrup 1, around the central part 9 of this stirrup, i.e. that is to say against the convex part of the omega section of this central part 9.
  • thermoplastic material 15 coats the central part 9 of the stirrup 1, the eyelet 3, and the reinforcing strip 5.
  • thermoplastic material thus overmolded comprises ribs 17 and cavities 19, judiciously placed with respect to the stress paths as they result from the design calculations.
  • Some of these ribs maintain a space between the reinforcing strip 5 and the periphery of the connecting rod, so as to protect this reinforcing strip from external attacks.
  • thermoplastic material 15 completely coats the central part 9 of the stirrup 1 having an omega section.
  • the polyamide resin making it possible to obtain the overmolding 15 is itself filled with reinforcing fibers, for example of glass or carbon, or plant fibers such as flax or nettle fibers for example, preferably arranged along the length direction of the connecting rod.
  • reinforcing fibers for example of glass or carbon, or plant fibers such as flax or nettle fibers for example, preferably arranged along the length direction of the connecting rod.
  • the stirrup 1, the eyelet 3 and the reinforcing strip 5 are placed, mutually arranged in accordance with the , inside an injection mold whose two half-molds have cavities corresponding to the negative of the overmolded plastic material 15 visible in FIGS. 3 and 5.
  • the polyamide resin is injected inside this mould, so that this resin circulates in all the recessed zones defining the ribs 17, 21 .
  • the injection pressure makes it possible in particular to exert a radial compression force on the annular rubber element 11, against the tubular metal element 13.
  • This element 11 having previously been coated on its periphery with a special undercoat, it becomes completely bonded to the circular rib 21.
  • the overmolding thus obtained makes it possible in particular to protect the reinforcing strip 15 from projections of gravel or other particles, which may occur when the vehicle is moving.
  • This strip thus overmolded makes it possible to obtain excellent resistance of the connecting rod according to the invention with respect to tensile and compressive forces.
  • the omega profile of the central section 9 of the stirrup 1 makes it possible to produce this stirrup by stamping without risk of concentration of stresses in particular in the connecting parts of this central part with the branches 2a, 2b of this stirrup.
  • the two orifices 7a, 7b formed in the branches 2a, 2b of the stirrup 1 are typically intended to cooperate with a motor vehicle wheel support eyelet.
  • the tubular element 13 of the eyelet 3 is typically intended to cooperate with a stud or more generally with a yoke grip integral with a motor vehicle axle cradle.
  • FIGS. 7 and 8 analogous to the , two caliper variants have been shown: on the , the stirrup 1 is made of extruded aluminum, and on the , the stirrup 1 is ribbed and made of cast steel.
  • stirrup 1 is formed by mechanically welded assembly of several metal parts.
  • the connecting rod according to the invention and its associated manufacturing process make it possible to obtain a resistant connecting rod made of very light materials.
  • Such a connecting rod can be used for the joints of the wheels of a motor vehicle, but also, subject to the necessary geometric adaptations, for example as a torque transmission arm, interposed between the engine of a motor vehicle and its chassis. .

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Vehicle Body Suspensions (AREA)
  • Shafts, Cranks, Connecting Bars, And Related Bearings (AREA)
  • Lining Or Joining Of Plastics Or The Like (AREA)
  • Moulding By Coating Moulds (AREA)
  • Injection Moulding Of Plastics Or The Like (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a connecting rod comprising, at each of its two ends, a connecting portion intended to engage with an external member, one of said connecting portions comprising a yoke (1) and the other of said connecting portions comprising an eyelet (3), the yoke (1) being connected to the eyelet (3) by a continuous reinforcing strip (5) forming a loop, the yoke (1), the eyelet (3) and the strip (5) being overmoulded at least partially by a thermoplastic material (15).

Description

    Bielle de liaison entre des organes d’un véhicule automobile, et procédé de fabrication associéConnecting rod between components of a motor vehicle, and associated method of manufacture Domaine de l’inventionField of invention
  • La présente invention se rapporte au domaine de la mécanique, et plus précisément à celui des composants intervenant dans la structure d’un véhicule automobile.The present invention relates to the field of mechanics, and more specifically to that of the components involved in the structure of a motor vehicle.
    • Domaine technique de l’inventionTechnical field of the invention
  • Dans un véhicule automobile, certains organes doivent pouvoir se mouvoir relativement les uns aux autres, selon des trajectoires prédéterminées, tout en demeurant fermement reliés les uns aux autres.In a motor vehicle, certain components must be able to move relative to each other, according to predetermined trajectories, while remaining firmly connected to each other.
  • A cette fin, des bielles sont prévues : les extrémités de ces bielles sont montées rotatives sur chacun des organes susceptibles de se mouvoir l’un par rapport à l’autre selon une trajectoire prédéfinie.To this end, connecting rods are provided: the ends of these connecting rods are rotatably mounted on each of the organs capable of moving relative to each other according to a predefined trajectory.
  • Un exemple d’une telle bielle est une bielle de reprise de couple du moteur d’un véhicule automobile, interposée entre ce moteur et le châssis du véhicule.An example of such a connecting rod is a torque pick-up connecting rod of the engine of a motor vehicle, interposed between this engine and the chassis of the vehicle.
  • Un autre exemple d’une telle bielle est une bielle de liaison entre le berceau et un support de roue d’un véhicule automobile.Another example of such a connecting rod is a connecting rod between the cradle and a wheel support of a motor vehicle.
    • Etat de la techniqueState of the art
  • Dans certaines applications, il est souhaitable de pouvoir utiliser une bielle comportant à l’un de ses extrémités un œillet de liaison, et à son autre extrémité, un étrier de liaison.In certain applications, it is desirable to be able to use a connecting rod comprising at one of its ends a connecting eyelet, and at its other end, a connecting bracket.
  • C’est le cas par exemple pour une bielle de liaison berceau/support de roue, dont l’œillet coopère avec le berceau, et l’étrier avec le support de roue.This is the case, for example, for a cradle/wheel carrier connecting rod, the eyelet of which cooperates with the cradle, and the caliper with the wheel carrier.
  • Classiquement, ces bielles de la technique antérieure sont formées en métal ou en alliage métallique, par exemple en aluminium extrudé, ou en acier moulé.Conventionally, these connecting rods of the prior art are formed from metal or a metal alloy, for example extruded aluminum, or cast steel.
  • L’inconvénient principal associé à ces matériaux est leur poids : ils n’offrent ainsi pas de réponse satisfaisante lorsque le constructeur de véhicules automobiles impose de fortes contraintes notamment sur le poids des éléments constitutifs de la structure du véhicule.The main drawback associated with these materials is their weight: they therefore do not offer a satisfactory response when the motor vehicle manufacturer imposes strong constraints, in particular on the weight of the constituent elements of the vehicle structure.
  • On trouve aussi dans la technique antérieure des bielles en matériaux thermoplastiques, du type à œillets aux deux extrémités, plus légères mais moins résistantes mécaniquement.Also found in the prior art are connecting rods made of thermoplastic materials, of the type with eyelets at both ends, which are lighter but less mechanically resistant.
  • Problème technique restant poséTechnical problem remaining
  • La présente invention a ainsi notamment pour objectif de fournir une bielle pour structure de véhicule automobile, du type à œillet et à étrier de liaison, plus légère que celle de la technique antérieure, et présentant une résistance mécanique au moins égale.The object of the present invention is thus in particular to provide a connecting rod for a motor vehicle structure, of the eyelet and connecting bracket type, lighter than that of the prior art, and having at least equal mechanical strength.
  • On atteint ce but de l’invention avec une bielle comportant, à chacune de ses deux extrémités, une partie de liaison destinée à coopérer avec un organe extérieur, l’une de ces parties de liaison comprenant un étrier et l’autre de ces parties de liaison comprenant un œillet, ledit étrier étant relié audit œillet par une bande de renfort continue formant boucle, ledit œillet, ledit étrier et ladite bande étant surmoulés au moins partiellement par une matière thermoplastique.This object of the invention is achieved with a connecting rod comprising, at each of its two ends, a connecting part intended to cooperate with an external member, one of these connecting parts comprising a stirrup and the other of these parts connection comprising an eyelet, said stirrup being connected to said eyelet by a continuous reinforcing strip forming a loop, said eyelet, said stirrup and said strip being molded at least partially by a thermoplastic material.
  • Avec ces caractéristiques, on obtient une bielle qui est non seulement résistante, grâce à la présence de la bande de renfort continue, mais également légère, grâce à l’utilisation d’une matière thermoplastique, qui vient se substituer au métal ou à l’alliage métallique de la technique antérieure.With these characteristics, a connecting rod is obtained which is not only resistant, thanks to the presence of the continuous reinforcing strip, but also light, thanks to the use of a thermoplastic material, which replaces metal or prior art metal alloy.
  • Suivant d’autres caractéristiques optionnelles de la bielle selon invention, prises seules ou en combinaison :According to other optional characteristics of the connecting rod according to the invention, taken alone or in combination:
  • - ledit étrier est formé en métal ou en alliage métallique, par emboutissage, ou par moulage, ou par extrusion, et/ou par usinage et/ou par soudage de plusieurs éléments métalliques entre eux : l’utilisation de métal ou d’alliage métallique permet d’assurer par boulonnage la bonne tenue dans le temps de cette extrémité de la bielle qui est destinée à coopérer avec un organe du véhicule automobile, tel qu’un organe de support de roue ;- said stirrup is formed of metal or metal alloy, by stamping, or by molding, or by extrusion, and/or by machining and/or by welding several metal elements together: the use of metal or metal alloy makes it possible to ensure, by bolting, the good resistance over time of this end of the connecting rod which is intended to cooperate with a member of the motor vehicle, such as a wheel support member;
  • - ledit étrier présente, dans la zone de coopération avec ladite bande de renfort, une section en oméga : une telle section permet de garantir une répartition optimale des contraintes dans l’étrier et dans les autres parties de la bielle ; plus précisément, cette section en oméga permet d’obtenir un moment quadratique élevé de la section tout en étant emboutissable avec des rayons de cambrage/cintrage faibles ;- said caliper has, in the area of cooperation with said reinforcement strip, an omega section: such a section makes it possible to guarantee an optimal distribution of the stresses in the caliper and in the other parts of the connecting rod; specifically, this omega section allows for a high quadratic moment of the section while being drawable with low camber/bend radii;
  • - ledit étrier présente des zones de faiblesse, adaptées pour céder avant les autres parties de la bielle, en cas d’efforts dépassant un seuil prédéterminé : on peut de la sorte prévoir que la bielle soit déformée dans la partie de l’étrier, et non pas ailleurs, en cas de collision du véhicule automobile avec un obstacle extérieur, ce qui permet de maîtriser le mode de ruine de cette bielle en situation extrême ;- said stirrup has zones of weakness, adapted to give way before the other parts of the connecting rod, in the event of forces exceeding a predetermined threshold: it is thus possible to provide for the connecting rod to be deformed in the part of the stirrup, and not elsewhere, in the event of collision of the motor vehicle with an external obstacle, which makes it possible to control the mode of ruin of this connecting rod in extreme situations;
  • - ledit œillet comporte un élément élastique au centre duquel est inséré un élément métallique de forme sensiblement tubulaire : cet élément élastique, qui peut être par exemple – mais non nécessairement – annulaire, permet de filtrer les vibrations transmises par la bielle, et l’insert métallique permet de relier par boulonnage cet élément élastique à la structure du véhicule automobile sans risque d’usure de cet élément ;- said eyelet comprises an elastic element in the center of which is inserted a metal element of substantially tubular shape: this elastic element, which can be for example - but not necessarily - annular, makes it possible to filter the vibrations transmitted by the connecting rod, and the insert metallic makes it possible to connect this elastic element by bolting to the structure of the motor vehicle without risk of wear of this element;
  • - ladite bande de renfort comprend des fibres longues et continues telles que des fibres de verre ou de carbone, ou des fibres végétales telles que des fibres de lin ou d’orties par exemple, noyées dans une résine : une telle bande de renfort, réalisée par exemple – mais de manière non limitative – avec une résine polyamide, présente l’avantage d’être très résistante aux efforts de traction, tout en étant suffisamment souple pour pouvoir être mise en œuvre aisément entre l’étrier et l’œillet lors du processus de fabrication de la bielle ;- said reinforcing strip comprises long and continuous fibers such as glass or carbon fibers, or plant fibers such as flax or nettle fibers for example, embedded in a resin: such a reinforcing strip, made example - but not limited to - with a polyamide resin, has the advantage of being very resistant to tensile forces, while being flexible enough to be able to be easily implemented between the stirrup and the eyelet during connecting rod manufacturing process;
  • - ledit surmoulage thermoplastique est réalisé dans une résine identique ou chimiquement compatible avec celle de la résine enrobant les fibres de ladite bande de renfort : un tel surmoulage peut être réalisé aisément avec des outils d’injection classique, à faible coût ; il permet en outre de protéger la bande de renfort vis-à-vis des projections de graviers et autres particules lors de déplacement du véhicule automobile ; comme il est réalisé dans la même résine, ou dans une résine chimiquement compatible avec celle enrobant la bande de renfort, on obtient une excellente cohésion de ce surmoulage avec la bande de renfort ;- said thermoplastic overmolding is carried out in a resin identical or chemically compatible with that of the resin coating the fibers of said reinforcing strip: such overmolding can be easily carried out with conventional injection tools, at low cost; it also makes it possible to protect the reinforcement strip against the projection of gravel and other particles during movement of the motor vehicle; as it is made in the same resin, or in a resin chemically compatible with that coating the reinforcement strip, excellent cohesion of this overmolding with the reinforcement strip is obtained;
  • - ledit surmoulage présente des cavités et des nervures : ces nervures et ces cavités, placées sur les principaux chemins d’effort, permettent de faire une économie de matière surmoulée, et donc de réduire le poids et le coût de fabrication de la bielle ; de plus, des nervures disposées entre la bande de renfort et la périphérie de la bielle permettent de positionner cette bande de renfort à l’écart des agressions mécaniques extérieures, comme des chocs de graviers ou autres particules lors du déplacement du véhicule. - said overmolding has cavities and ribs: these ribs and these cavities, placed on the main stress paths, make it possible to save overmolded material, and therefore to reduce the weight and manufacturing cost of the connecting rod; in addition, ribs arranged between the reinforcing strip and the periphery of the connecting rod make it possible to position this reinforcing strip away from external mechanical attacks, such as impacts from gravel or other particles when the vehicle is moving.
  • La présente invention se rapporte également à un procédé de fabrication d’une bielle conforme à ce qui précède, dans lequel on passe ladite bande de renfort à l’intérieur dudit étrier et autour dudit œillet, on place ces trois pièces ainsi reliées à l’intérieur d’un moule à injection, et on injecte une matière de surmoulage à l’intérieur de ce moule.The present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a connecting rod in accordance with the above, in which said reinforcing strip is passed inside said stirrup and around said eyelet, these three parts are placed thus connected to the inside an injection mold, and an overmolding material is injected inside this mold.
  • Ce faisant, la matière de surmoulage vient enrober au moins une partie de l’étrier, l’œillet et la bande de renfort, permettant de solidariser ces pièces entre elles.In doing so, the overmolding material coats at least part of the stirrup, the eyelet and the reinforcement strip, making it possible to secure these parts together.
  • Lorsque l’œillet comporte un élément élastique annulaire, la pression exercée par la matière de surmoulage lors de son injection à l’intérieur du moule, permet de comprimer cet élément élastique annulaire vers son centre : ceci permet d’augmenter la durée de vie de cet élément élastique. When the eyelet includes an annular elastic element, the pressure exerted by the overmoulding material during its injection inside the mold, makes it possible to compress this annular elastic element towards its center: this makes it possible to increase the service life of this elastic element.
  • D’autres caractéristiques et avantages de l’invention ressortiront à la lecture de la description qui suit, en référence aux figures annexées, dans lesquelles :
     : est une vue en perspective d’un étrier, d’un œillet et d’une bande de renfort d’une bielle selon invention, avant leur assemblage et leur surmoulage ;
     : est une vue en perspective de cet étrier, de cet œillet et de cette bande après leur assemblage et avant leur surmoulage ;
     : est une vue en perspective de la bielle selon invention après surmoulage de l’étrier, de l’œillet et de la bande de renfort ;
     : est une vue de dessus de cette bielle ;
     : est une vue en coupe de cette bielle selon la ligne A-A de la  ;
     : est une vue en coupe de cette bielle selon la ligne B-B de la  ;
     : est une vue analogue à celle de la , avec une variante d’étrier ;
     : est une vue analogue à celle de la , avec encore une autre variante d’étrier.
     : est une vue de la bielle des figures 1 à 6, dont l’étrier présente une zone de faiblesse programmée,
     : est une vue de cette bielle après rupture de l’étrier, et
     : est une vue en perspective analogue à celle des figures 2, 7 et 8, avec encore une autre variante d’étrier.    Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent on reading the following description, with reference to the appended figures, in which:
    : is a perspective view of a stirrup, an eyelet and a reinforcing strip of a connecting rod according to the invention, before their assembly and their overmoulding;
    : is a perspective view of this stirrup, of this eyelet and of this band after their assembly and before their overmoulding;
    : is a perspective view of the connecting rod according to the invention after overmolding of the stirrup, the eyelet and the reinforcing strip;
    : is a top view of this connecting rod;
    : is a sectional view of this connecting rod along line AA of the ;
    : is a sectional view of this connecting rod along the line BB of the ;
    : is a view analogous to that of the , with a variant of stirrup;
    : is a view analogous to that of the , with yet another stirrup variant.
    : is a view of the connecting rod of Figures 1 to 6, the stirrup of which has a programmed zone of weakness,
    : is a view of this connecting rod after breaking the caliper, and
    : is a perspective view similar to that of Figures 2, 7 and 8, with yet another variant of stirrup.
  • Pour plus de clarté, les éléments identiques ou similaires sont repérés par des signes de référence identiques ou similaires sur l’ensemble des figures.For greater clarity, identical or similar elements are identified by identical or similar reference signs in all the figures.
  • Description détaillée de modes de réalisation de l’inventionDetailed description of embodiments of the invention
  • On se reporte à présent à la , sur laquelle on a représenté trois pièces entrant dans la constitution d’une bielle selon la présente invention.We now refer to the , on which three parts are shown forming part of a connecting rod according to the present invention.
  • Ces trois pièces comprennent un étrier 1, un œillet 3, et une bande de renfort 5.These three parts include a stirrup 1, an eyelet 3, and a reinforcement strip 5.
  • L’étrier 1 peut être réalisé par emboutissage, par moulage, par extrusion, par assemblage de pièces mécano-soudées, en acier en tout autre alliage métallique répondant au cahier des charges imposé par le constructeur.The stirrup 1 can be made by stamping, by molding, by extrusion, by assembly of mechanically welded parts, in steel in any other metal alloy meeting the specifications imposed by the manufacturer.
  • L’étrier 1 comporte dans chacune de ses branches latérales 2a, 2b un orifice 7a, 7b. La partie centrale 9 de cet étrier reliant entre elles les deux branches latérales 2a, 2b présente une section en oméga, comme cela est visible par exemple sur la .The stirrup 1 comprises in each of its side branches 2a, 2b an orifice 7a, 7b. The central part 9 of this stirrup connecting the two lateral branches 2a, 2b together has an omega section, as is visible for example on the .
  • L’œillet 3 comprend un élément de préférence – mais de manière non limitative - annulaire 11 formé dans un matériau élastique tel que du caoutchouc naturel ou synthétique, surmoulé avec adhérisation sur un élément sensiblement tubulaire 13, formé de préférence en métal.The eyelet 3 comprises a preferably - but not limited to - annular element 11 formed in an elastic material such as natural or synthetic rubber, overmolded with bonding on a substantially tubular element 13, preferably formed in metal.
  • La bande de renfort 5, dont la largeur peut par exemple – mais de manière non limitative - être de l’ordre de 20 mm, et l’épaisseur de l’ordre de 1 mm, est formée en résine, telle que de la résine polyamide emprisonnant des fibres de renfort longues et continues, telles que des fibres de verre ou de carbone, ou des fibres végétales telles que fibres de lin ou d’orties par exemple, ces fibres étant disposées sensiblement selon la direction de la longueur de cette bande 5.The reinforcing strip 5, the width of which can for example - but in a non-limiting manner - be of the order of 20 mm, and the thickness of the order of 1 mm, is formed of resin, such as resin polyamide trapping long and continuous reinforcing fibers, such as glass or carbon fibers, or plant fibers such as flax or nettle fibers for example, these fibers being arranged substantially along the direction of the length of this strip 5.
  • La résine polyamide est indiquée à titre d’exemple, mais il va de soi que d’autres résines utilisées dans le domaine des composites peuvent aussi convenir.The polyamide resin is given by way of example, but it goes without saying that other resins used in the field of composites can also be suitable.
  • Cette bande de renfort 5 forme une boucle continue, c’est-à-dire qu’elle ne comporte pas d’interruption.This reinforcing strip 5 forms a continuous loop, that is to say it has no interruption.
  • Comme on peut le voir sur la , cette bande de renfort 5 est destinée à passer autour de l’élément annulaire en caoutchouc 11 de l’œillet 3, et à l’intérieur de l’étrier 1, autour de la partie centrale 9 de cet étrier, c’est-à-dire contre la partie convexe de la section en oméga de cette partie centrale 9.As can be seen on the , this reinforcing strip 5 is intended to pass around the annular rubber element 11 of the eyelet 3, and inside the stirrup 1, around the central part 9 of this stirrup, i.e. that is to say against the convex part of the omega section of this central part 9.
  • Cette coopération particulière de la bande de renfort 5 avec l’étrier 1 et l’œillet 3 est également visible sur la .This particular cooperation of the reinforcement band 5 with the stirrup 1 and the eyelet 3 is also visible on the .
  • Sur les figures 3, 4, 5, 6, on peut voir la bielle selon invention après l’opération de surmoulage par une matière thermoplastique identique ou chimiquement compatible avec la résine de la bande de renfort 5, telle que de la résine polyamide.In Figures 3, 4, 5, 6, one can see the connecting rod according to the invention after the overmolding operation with a thermoplastic material identical or chemically compatible with the resin of the reinforcing strip 5, such as polyamide resin.
  • Comme cela visible sur ces figures, cette matière thermoplastique 15 enrobe la partie centrale 9 de l’étrier 1, l’œillet 3, et la bande de renfort 5.As can be seen in these figures, this thermoplastic material 15 coats the central part 9 of the stirrup 1, the eyelet 3, and the reinforcing strip 5.
  • Comme cela est plus particulièrement visible sur les figures 3 et 5, cette matière thermoplastique ainsi surmoulée comporte des nervures 17 et des cavités 19, judicieusement placées par rapport aux chemins de contraintes tels qu’ils résultent des calculs de conception.As is more particularly visible in Figures 3 and 5, this thermoplastic material thus overmolded comprises ribs 17 and cavities 19, judiciously placed with respect to the stress paths as they result from the design calculations.
  • Certaines de ces nervures maintiennent un espace entre la bande de renfort 5 et la périphérie de la bielle, de manière à protéger cette bande de renfort des agressions extérieures.Some of these ribs maintain a space between the reinforcing strip 5 and the periphery of the connecting rod, so as to protect this reinforcing strip from external attacks.
  • On notera en particulier qu’une nervure circulaire 21 entoure l’élément annulaire en caoutchouc 11, et que de la matière thermoplastique 15 vient enrober complètement la partie centrale 9 de l’étrier 1 présentant une section en oméga.It will be noted in particular that a circular rib 21 surrounds the annular rubber element 11, and that thermoplastic material 15 completely coats the central part 9 of the stirrup 1 having an omega section.
  • De préférence, la résine polyamide permettant d’obtenir le surmoulage 15 est elle-même chargée de fibres de renfort, par exemple en verre ou en carbone, ou des fibres végétales telles que fibres de lin ou d’orties par exemple, disposées de préférence selon la direction de la longueur de la bielle.Preferably, the polyamide resin making it possible to obtain the overmolding 15 is itself filled with reinforcing fibers, for example of glass or carbon, or plant fibers such as flax or nettle fibers for example, preferably arranged along the length direction of the connecting rod.
  • Pour obtenir la bielle selon invention, on place l’étrier 1, l’œillet 3 et la bande de renfort 5, mutuellement agencés conformément à la , à l’intérieur d’un moule à injection dont les deux demi-moules comportent des empreintes correspondant au négatif de la matière plastique surmoulée 15 visible aux figures 3 et 5.To obtain the connecting rod according to the invention, the stirrup 1, the eyelet 3 and the reinforcing strip 5 are placed, mutually arranged in accordance with the , inside an injection mold whose two half-molds have cavities corresponding to the negative of the overmolded plastic material 15 visible in FIGS. 3 and 5.
  • Une fois les trois pièces 1, 3 et 5 placées à l’intérieur de ce moule, on injecte la résine polyamide à l’intérieur de ce moule, de sorte que cette résine circule dans toutes les zones en creux définissant les nervures 17, 21.Once the three parts 1, 3 and 5 have been placed inside this mould, the polyamide resin is injected inside this mould, so that this resin circulates in all the recessed zones defining the ribs 17, 21 .
  • La pression de l’injection permet notamment d’exercer un effort de compression radiale sur l’élément annulaire en caoutchouc 11, contre l’élément métallique tubulaire 13.The injection pressure makes it possible in particular to exert a radial compression force on the annular rubber element 11, against the tubular metal element 13.
  • Cet élément 11 ayant au préalable été enduit sur sa périphérie d’une sous-couche spéciale, il devient complétement adhérisé à la nervure circulaire 21.This element 11 having previously been coated on its periphery with a special undercoat, it becomes completely bonded to the circular rib 21.
  • Le surmoulage ainsi obtenu permet notamment de protéger la bande de renfort 15 des projections de graviers ou autres particules, pouvant survenir lorsque le véhicule se déplace.The overmolding thus obtained makes it possible in particular to protect the reinforcing strip 15 from projections of gravel or other particles, which may occur when the vehicle is moving.
  • Cette bande ainsi surmoulée permet d’obtenir une excellente résistance de la bielle selon l’invention vis-à-vis des efforts de traction et de compression.This strip thus overmolded makes it possible to obtain excellent resistance of the connecting rod according to the invention with respect to tensile and compressive forces.
  • L’effort de compression radiale réalisé sur l’élément annulaire élastique 11 lors du surmoulage, permet de maintenir cet élément annulaire sous précontrainte, et ainsi d’éviter une usure prématurée du caoutchouc qui le constitue.The radial compressive force produced on the elastic annular element 11 during the overmoulding, makes it possible to maintain this annular element under prestress, and thus to avoid premature wear of the rubber which constitutes it.
  • Le profil en oméga de la section centrale 9 de l’étrier 1 permet de réaliser cet étrier par emboutissage sans risque de concentration de contraintes notamment dans les parties de liaison de cette partie centrale avec les branches 2a, 2b de cet étrier.The omega profile of the central section 9 of the stirrup 1 makes it possible to produce this stirrup by stamping without risk of concentration of stresses in particular in the connecting parts of this central part with the branches 2a, 2b of this stirrup.
  • On peut prévoit de préférence certaine zones de faiblesse prédéterminées dans l’étrier 1, de sorte qu’en cas de choc important, la bielle se ruine plutôt dans la zone de l’étrier 1 qu’ailleurs, ce qui permet de contrôler le comportement de cette bielle en situation d’accident : une telle zone de faiblesse 23 est représentée à titre d’exemple sur les figures 9 et 10, respectivement avant et après rupture de l’étrier. It is possible to preferably provide certain predetermined zones of weakness in the stirrup 1, so that in the event of a major impact, the connecting rod is ruined rather in the zone of the stirrup 1 than elsewhere, which makes it possible to control the behavior of this connecting rod in an accident situation: such a zone of weakness 23 is shown by way of example in Figures 9 and 10, respectively before and after breakage of the caliper.
  • Les deux orifices 7a, 7b formés dans les branches 2a, 2b de l’étrier 1 sont typiquement destinés à coopérer avec un œillet de support de roue de véhicule automobile.The two orifices 7a, 7b formed in the branches 2a, 2b of the stirrup 1 are typically intended to cooperate with a motor vehicle wheel support eyelet.
  • L’élément tubulaire 13 de l’œillet 3 est typiquement destiné à coopérer avec un téton ou plus généralement avec une prise en chape solidaire d’un berceau d’essieu de véhicule automobile.The tubular element 13 of the eyelet 3 is typically intended to cooperate with a stud or more generally with a yoke grip integral with a motor vehicle axle cradle.
  • Sur les figures 7 et 8, analogues à la , on a représenté deux variantes d’étrier : sur la , l’étrier 1 est réalisé en aluminium extrudé, et sur la , l’étrier 1 est nervuré et réalisé en acier moulé.In FIGS. 7 and 8, analogous to the , two caliper variants have been shown: on the , the stirrup 1 is made of extruded aluminum, and on the , the stirrup 1 is ribbed and made of cast steel.
  • Sur la , on a représenté une variante dans laquelle l’étrier 1 est formé par assemblage mécano-soudé de plusieurs pièces métalliques.On the , there is shown a variant in which the stirrup 1 is formed by mechanically welded assembly of several metal parts.
  • Comme on peut le comprendre à la lumière de ce qui précède, la bielle selon invention et son procédé de fabrication associé, permettent d’obtenir une bielle résistante en matériaux très légers.As can be understood in the light of the foregoing, the connecting rod according to the invention and its associated manufacturing process, make it possible to obtain a resistant connecting rod made of very light materials.
  • Une telle bielle peut être utilisée pour les articulations des roues d’un véhicule automobile, mais également, moyennant les adaptations géométriques qui s’imposent, par exemple comme bras de reprise de couple, interposé entre le moteur d’un véhicule automobile et son châssis.Such a connecting rod can be used for the joints of the wheels of a motor vehicle, but also, subject to the necessary geometric adaptations, for example as a torque transmission arm, interposed between the engine of a motor vehicle and its chassis. .
  • Naturellement, l’invention est décrite dans ce qui précède à titre d’exemple. Il est entendu que l’homme du métier est à même de réaliser différentes variantes de réalisation de l’invention sans pour autant sortir du cadre de l’invention.Naturally, the invention is described in the foregoing by way of example. It is understood that the person skilled in the art is able to carry out different variant embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims (9)

  1. Bielle comportant, à chacune de ses deux extrémités, une partie de liaison destinée à coopérer avec un organe extérieur, l’une de ces parties de liaison comprenant un étrier (1) et l’autre de ces parties de liaison comprenant un œillet (3), ledit étrier (1) étant relié audit œillet (3) par une bande de renfort continue (5) formant boucle, ledit étrier (1), ledit œillet (3) et ladite bande (5) étant surmoulés au moins partiellement par une matière thermoplastique (15).Connecting rod comprising, at each of its two ends, a connecting part intended to cooperate with an external member, one of these connecting parts comprising a stirrup (1) and the other of these connecting parts comprising an eyelet (3 ), said stirrup (1) being connected to said eyelet (3) by a continuous reinforcing strip (5) forming a loop, said stirrup (1), said eyelet (3) and said strip (5) being molded at least partially by a thermoplastic material (15).
  2. Bielle selon la revendication 1, dans laquelle ledit étrier (1) est formé en métal ou en alliage métallique, par emboutissage, ou par moulage, ou par extrusion, et/ou par usinage et/ou par soudage de plusieurs éléments métalliques entre eux.Connecting rod according to Claim 1, in which the said yoke (1) is formed from metal or a metal alloy, by stamping, or by molding, or by extrusion, and/or by machining and/or by welding several metal elements together.
  3. Bielle selon l’une des revendications 1 ou 2, dans laquelle ledit étrier (1) présente, dans la zone (9) de coopération avec ladite bande de renfort (5), une section en oméga.Connecting rod according to one of Claims 1 or 2, in which the said stirrup (1) has, in the zone (9) of cooperation with the said reinforcing strip (5), an omega section.
  4. Bielle selon l’une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, dans laquelle ledit étrier (1) présente des zones de faiblesse, adaptées pour céder avant les autres parties de la bielle, en cas d’efforts dépassant un seuil prédéterminé.Connecting rod according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, in which the said stirrup (1) has zones of weakness, adapted to give way before the other parts of the connecting rod, in the event of forces exceeding a predetermined threshold.
  5. Bielle selon l’une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle ledit œillet (3) comporte un élément élastique (11) au centre duquel est inséré un élément métallique (13) de forme sensiblement tubulaire.Connecting rod according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the said eyelet (3) comprises an elastic element (11) in the center of which is inserted a metal element (13) of substantially tubular shape.
  6. Bielle selon l’une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle ladite bande de renfort (5) comprend des fibres longues et continues telles que des fibres de verre ou de carbone, ou des fibres végétales telles que fibres de lin ou d’orties, noyées dans une résine.Connecting rod according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the said reinforcing strip (5) comprises long and continuous fibers such as glass or carbon fibers, or plant fibers such as flax or nettle fibers, embedded in a resin.
  7. Bielle selon l’une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle ledit surmoulage thermoplastique (15) est réalisé dans une résine identique ou chimiquement compatible avec celle de la résine enrobant les fibres de ladite bande de renfort.Connecting rod according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the said thermoplastic overmolding (15) is produced in a resin identical to or chemically compatible with that of the resin coating the fibers of the said reinforcing strip.
  8. Bielle selon l’une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle ledit surmoulage (15) présente des cavités (19) et des nervures (17). Connecting rod according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the said overmolding (15) has cavities (19) and ribs (17).
  9. Procédé de fabrication d’une bielle conforme à l’une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel on passe ladite bande de renfort (5) à l’intérieur dudit étrier (1) et autour dudit œillet (3), on place ces trois pièces ainsi reliées à l’intérieur d’un moule à injection, et on injecte une matière de surmoulage (15) à l’intérieur de ce moule.Method of manufacturing a connecting rod according to any one of the preceding claims, in which said reinforcing strip (5) is passed inside said stirrup (1) and around said eyelet (3), these three parts are placed thus connected inside an injection mold, and an overmolding material (15) is injected inside this mold.
EP22700231.8A 2021-01-11 2022-01-07 Rod for connecting members of a motor vehicle, and associated manufacturing method Pending EP4274972A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR2100194A FR3118793B1 (en) 2021-01-11 2021-01-11 Connecting rod between components of a motor vehicle, and associated method of manufacture
PCT/EP2022/050232 WO2022148826A1 (en) 2021-01-11 2022-01-07 Rod for connecting members of a motor vehicle, and associated manufacturing method

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EP4274972A1 true EP4274972A1 (en) 2023-11-15

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US (1) US20240052877A1 (en)
EP (1) EP4274972A1 (en)
JP (1) JP2024502476A (en)
CN (1) CN117042944A (en)
FR (1) FR3118793B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2022148826A1 (en)

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DE3004575A1 (en) * 1980-02-08 1981-08-13 Sigri Elektrographit Gmbh, 8901 Meitingen CONNECTING ROD MADE OF COMPOSITE MATERIAL
DE3204093C2 (en) * 1982-02-06 1983-12-08 Deutsche Forschungs- und Versuchsanstalt für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V., 5300 Bonn Connecting rod for an internal combustion piston engine
DE3225325C1 (en) * 1982-07-07 1984-01-05 Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm GmbH, 8000 München Connecting rod made of fiber reinforced plastic
US20070264470A1 (en) * 2001-02-16 2007-11-15 Wellman Scott A Structural composite
WO2015160815A1 (en) * 2014-04-15 2015-10-22 Toyota Tsusho America, Inc. Composite automotive connecting rod and method of manufacture

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WO2022148826A1 (en) 2022-07-14
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JP2024502476A (en) 2024-01-19
FR3118793B1 (en) 2022-11-25

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